Israeli authorities have authorized a quota of 92,000 foreign workers to alleviate labor shortages across various sectors including agriculture, industry, hotels, and restaurants, announced the Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday. This decision marks the first time Israel has permitted foreign workers to be employed in the restaurant industry.
Seventy percent of the quota is earmarked specifically for agricultural laborers, reflecting urgent needs in Israeli farming amid significant production losses and manpower deficiencies. Until recently, Israel relied heavily on around 29,900 foreign workers, predominantly from Thailand, in farms, orchards, greenhouses, and packing facilities.
The labor shortage has been exacerbated by several factors, including Israeli workers being called up for military reserve duty and a ban on Palestinian laborers due to security concerns. Agricultural regions near the Lebanese border have faced operational challenges, limiting access to fields and orchards.
“Asaf Keret, CEO of Beresheet, emphasized the resilience of Israeli agriculture despite these challenges. He called for government support through grants for planting, increasing labor quotas, and additional incentives to bolster agricultural productivity,” the Prime Minister’s Office noted.
The remaining foreign workers will be deployed to fill gaps in industries and hotels, with 2,000 allocated for the restaurant sector for the first time.
In recent months, Hezbollah attacks from Lebanon have intensified, resulting in casualties and disruptions in northern Israel. Israeli officials have reiterated calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which concluded the 2006 Second Lebanon War.
Israeli authorities are expected to implement measures to facilitate the integration of foreign workers while addressing security concerns and the operational needs of various sectors.
